“Topping out marks a key stage in the construction process, celebrating the completion of major structural works by placing a symbolic green wreath atop the building. Although there is still some way to go before the mill is fully completed, today marks a significant milestone: from the foundations to the roof, the structure now stands as a project that will soon contribute to the bioeconomy and a greener future. During the event, thanks were extended to the construction team for their professionalism, dedication and daily efforts in ensuring the mill is built safely, precisely, and in a well-coordinated manner. We wish to thank our partners – UPB Projects, UPB Energy, and UPB Nams – for their excellent cooperation and shared commitment to achieving an outstanding result,”

said Māris Būmanis, Member of the Executive Board of Latvijas Finieris.

The new mill is being built in the Latvijas Finieris industrial territory at Finiera iela 6, and its construction started at the end of 2024. The building has now taken shape. The building’s load-bearing prefabricated concrete and metal structures, as well as the external networks, have now been completed. The installation of windows, doors and roofing is ongoing, which will enable the building envelope to be completed in the near future. Internal engineering networks (heating, ventilation, power supply, etc.) are being constructed to ensure the functionality of the building. Improvements have also begun in the surrounding area, with roads and squares currently being resurfaced. The installation of the major process equipment inside the building has been completed, and work has now begun on connecting the equipment. Construction of the support structures for the external process equipment is ongoing, the installation of which is expected to begin later this year.

The new mill will be unique not only in Latvia but also on a global scale. It will scale up the production of a new type of resin, in which part of the fossil-based raw materials, phenol and formaldehyde, are replaced with lignin – a naturally occurring component of wood. This innovation significantly reduces reliance on fossil resources and fosters a more sustainable approach to adhesive production. The mill will have an annual production capacity of up to 45 000 tonnes.

The mill forms part of the international HORIZON 2020 co-funded project VIOBOND, which seeks to promote the transition to bio-based materials and reduce the industry’s environmental impact. With this project, Latvijas Finieris continues its journey towards the production of the future – smarter, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly.